Which State in the US Has the Most Colleges? List of Top 10 States in the USA with the Most Colleges

The United States is a leading choice for higher education, boasting many top-tier colleges and universities like Stanford, Yale, Boston University and more. 

These institutions attract international students from over 210 countries. In the 2023/2024 academic year, U.S. colleges hosted over 1.1 million international students.

New York and Texas are states with over a million college students enrolled. California, New York, and Texas are the top three states that host the most international students. 

The state with the most colleges is California. Many international students pursue degrees in STEM fields, with math and computer science being the most popular.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the US states with the most colleges, exploring their higher education landscape and highlighting some of their notable institutions.

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List the Top 10 States with the Most Colleges in the US

The number of colleges in a state often correlates with its population size. Based on IPEDS data, here are the top 10 states with the most colleges in the USA:

1. California

Source: EdSource

• Capital: Sacramento
• Population: Approximately 39.6 million
• Number of Colleges: 644
• Renowned College: Stanford University

California, the most populous state, boasts a diverse and expansive higher education system. Its large population, economic diversity, and emphasis on education contribute to the high number of institutions.

2. New York

Source: Fox News

• Capital: Albany
• Population (2025): Approximately 19.9 million
• Number of Colleges: 423
• Renowned College: Columbia University

New York's historical significance in education and its dense urban centres support a vast array of colleges and universities. Despite recent population declines, the state's commitment to higher education remains strong.

3. Texas

Source: FOX 26 Houston

• Capital: Austin
• Population (2024): 31.8 million
• Number of Colleges: 394
• Renowned College: University of Texas at Austin

Texas's rapid population growth and economic expansion have led to increased demand for higher education. The state's investment in educational infrastructure supports its large number of institutions.

4. Florida

Source: Miami Herald

• Capital: Tallahassee
• Population: 23.8 million
• Number of Colleges: 328
• Renowned College: University of Florida

Florida's growing population and diverse communities have driven the expansion of its higher education system. The state's focus on accessibility and affordability contributes to its numerous colleges.

5. Pennsylvania

Source: College Transitions

• Capital: Harrisburg
• Population: Approximately 13.1 million
• Number of Colleges: 301
• Renowned College: University of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's rich educational history and commitment to academic excellence have resulted in a high concentration of institutions. The state's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of academic interests.

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6. Ohio

Source: OSU Compass

• Capital: Columbus
• Population: 11.9 million
• Number of Colleges: 270
• Renowned College: Ohio State University

Ohio's central location and emphasis on research and development have fostered a robust higher education landscape. The state's support for both public and private institutions contributes to its high number of colleges.

7. Illinois

Source: College Advisor

• Capital: Springfield
• Population: 12.7 million
• Number of Colleges: 234
• Renowned College: University of Chicago

Illinois's diverse economy and urban centres, particularly Chicago, support a wide array of higher education institutions. The state's commitment to academic research and innovation is evident in its numerous colleges.

8. North Carolina

Source: Appily.com

• Capital: Raleigh
• Population: 11.2 million
• Number of Colleges: 164
• Renowned College: Duke University

Because of its growing population and one of the highest per capita investments in education in the country, North Carolina offers a wide range of higher education opportunities. The state’s high-talent, high-technology and high-innovation industries are attracting students from across the country.

9. Michigan

Source: Cars 108

• Capital: Lansing
• Population: Approximately 10.19 million
• Number of Colleges: 159
• Renowned College: University of Michigan

This focus on research and development, especially in automotive and engineering industries, fuels Michigan’s complex higher education ecosystem. Abounding with a commitment to innovation, the state is home to one of the most dynamic academic offerings in the country.

10. New Jersey

Source: USA Today

• Capital: Trenton
• Population: 9.6 million
• Number of Colleges: 155
• Renowned College: Princeton University

New Jersey’s remarkable location between some of the world's greatest metropolitan areas, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., plays a huge role in allowing for such a high concentration of colleges. The state’s commitment to academic rigour, education policy, and a research-oriented culture attracts students from China, Brazil, and Texas.

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